Artificial Sweeteners Are Toxic to Gut Bacteria

Saccharine, Aspartame, Acesulfame-K, Neotame, Advantame, Sucralose. Even the names sound a little scary. What's a real fright, however, is what these "diet" sugar substitutes are doing in your body. The potential side effects from some of these chemicals are still being explored. Aspartame, for example, has been connected to seizures, headaches and migraines, among other medical issues. In this episode of the Four Pillar Fitness podcast, I'm looking at the damage these chemicals can do. Looming large among this is the impact on your gut bacteria from ingesting these chemicals. New research reveals that even minimal amounts of these chemicals can severely damage your gut microbes. Since your microbiome is intimately involved in lots of body functions, including digestion, mood, stress response and muscle and body recovery, you want your gut microbes healthy and happy! Listen and learn what researchers have found. You'll also hear about the connection between artificial sweeteners and diabetes and how they even impact the environment. As always, your thoughts and comments are welcome!